Four Lions (2010)

Hilariously controversial comedy from director Christopher Morris, about four wannabe-suicide bombers living in the UK, hopelessly planning a terrorist attack.

Islam extremists do not tend to make the most popular of protagonists for films - they tend to lose sympathy from an audience when they try to blow innocent people up. However, in Four Lions, the main characters are a group of enthusiastic jihadists, who have taken up the fight against western evil, but are so useless that they seem almost loveable. From the outset it is clear that these guys have very little knowledge about the cause, and are simply acting out of the pursuit of reward.

Omar (Riz Ahmed), the leader of the group, is the only one with a half a brain, and even he seems like a complete idiot compared to his studious and non-violent brother who actually reads the scripture. Omar’s buddy Waj (Kayvan Novak) is extremely gullible, and seems to have very little idea why he is planning to blow himself up. The group’s least liked member, Barry (Nigel Lindsay), acts as a loud-mouthed preacher, of sorts, but his ideas border on the insane. The group as a whole, attempts to replicate the actions of their “brothers in arms”, by making bin Laden-esque video takes which are more like blooper reels, or carrying out practice explosions which turn out deadly for a poor crow.

As they plan an attack, the group bicker and argue about all aspects of their beliefs, and are in constant danger of either blowing themselves up accidentally, or giving themselves away to the police.

Riotously funny throughout, this is an outstanding comedy. The characters are wonderfully eclectic and realistic - bringing in elements of fundamentalist Islam and mixing them with poorly educated street kids. The film manages to avoid too much politics, which would bog the story down immensely, and instead focuses on the outrageously stupid actions of these guys.

The script is an absolute gem, sharp and witty throughout, it sidesteps any “obligatory” moments of reflection or tenderness, and instead goes straight for the funny bone. In the same way that Team America: World Police was a comedy-condemnation of western ignorance, this movie condemns eastern extremism, using many similar techniques.

If you are a fan of controversial comedy, this film is a must. But, be warned, you need to be able to see the funny side of suicide bombings.